Table 2.

Future directions

Research needed	Examples
Discovery research	Leverage genome-wide genetic and genomic technologies to explore novel genetic loci for intentional weight loss or weight change Develop advanced statistical approaches designed to concurrently examine the effects of phenotypic and genotypic data from multiple sources
Genetic variation	Design large randomized control trials of behavioral weight loss interventions designed to examine genetic variation in weight loss/maintenance/regain
	Convene behavior weight loss intervention consortia to leverage resources
	Replication of smaller studies examining genetic variation
Measurement	Examine measures of body composition, other than BMI (e.g., functional vs. static phenotypes, visceral and subcutaneous fat using computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging)
Mechanisms	Examine epigenetic and microbiome mechanisms involved in controlling energy homeostasis and weight management
	Examine indirect and direct genetic pathways of health behaviors (diet, physical activity) on weight loss/maintenance/regain
Personalized weight loss	Examine whether genetic discoveries and technological advances can be implemented in a clinical setting to motivate behavior change/adherence to weight loss interventions
	Examine whether baseline characteristics, including genetics and genomics, predict change in weight, weight loss maintenance, or change in obesity-related comorbidities with sufficient precision to permit tailored treatment guidelines